FESTIVAL OVERVIEW
» You are taking part in much more than a multi-ethnic soccer tournament; you are expressing one of
Canada’s most cherished values: acceptance. We live in a country where we have understood that we are
rich not despite our diversity but because of it. For me this is a message that will need to be repeated from
generation to generation to make sure that this core value of what makes us Canadian never dies” «
The Right Honourable Justin P. J. Trudeau, Prime Minister Of Canada
VISF is a soccer festival organized by One
Team United for Peace and Development.
With a big vision and an outstanding
community track record, the festival
strives to be one of the most successful
international tournaments in the world.
VISF provides local and international
guests with an exceptional soccer and
cultural experience that will benefit our
city, country, and the world.
In past years, VISF, ONETEAM Society,
and partners hosted players from Israel
and Palestine. This once in a lifetime
opportunity saw Arab and Jewish athletes
competing together as one team in the
Vancouver International Soccer Festival.
The team impressed and inspired members
of the local community with their passion
and cooperation towards a common goal.
They showed participants that peace
and social change for their respective
communities in Israel and Palestine
is possible. CBC soccer day in Canada
and CBC the NATIONAL featured the
tournament and Israel-Palestine team in a
special national broadcast.
WHY SOCCER?
Soccer is the biggest game in the world.
The game is watched and played by
billions of people worldwide; therefore,
it’s a powerful medium for change and for
making a difference. The game transcends
borders and barriers, and is among
the most powerful tools for creating
awareness about issues of global interest.
2016 FESTIVAL OVERVIEW
Join us July 8, 9, and 10 at Empire Fields in Vancouver, as it promises to be
our biggest and most exciting year yet.
SPONSOR • DONATE • VOLUNTEER • ENTER A TEAM • SPREAD THE
WORD!
EVENT PROMOTION AND PUBLICITY
VISF has caught the attention of local and international media, receiving
extensive promotion and editorial coverage through TV, radio, print, and
other multi-media outlets. Media sponsors are selected carefully to ensure
that the event is promoted well. VISF provides sponsors with opportunities
for promotion and publicity through an extensive campaign which includes:
advertising and media, promotional materials, an event website and an onsite
event program.
2016 Festival Highlights:
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A multicultural soccer tournament including local, international, homeless, First Nations, and multi-ethnic soccer teams
Tournament sanctioned by BC Soccer Association
Recognized by Fairtrade Canada as one of the first Fair Trade accredited sporting events in Canada
Three days of soccer, music, food, entertainment, and fun!
Food, beer and wine gardens
Friendly exhibition matches
32 Coed teams comprised of local and international soccer players 50 staff and volunteers
Fun for the whole family
Free admission
» Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to unite in a way
that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport
can create hope where once there was only despair. It is more powerful than
governments in breaking down racial barriers. It laughs in the face of all types of
discrimination.« Nelson Mandela
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY
VISF is currently seeking major sponsorship aligned with the messages of sports, cultural harmony, and global peace and involvement in social change through
soccer. We are seeking: funding partners, venue partnership, and media sponsors. VISF provides exposure by association opportunities, such as inclusion in press
releases, event website, and exposure at the festival site and at VISF beer garden.
CONTACT
Vancouver International Soccer Festival
Adri Hamael, Founder and Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.visf.ca
» learned through sport, we often think of concepts like integrity, sportsmanship, and
When we reflect on the values
teamwork. These are, without a doubt, pillars of sport and human development. But Adri Hamael and his team
have broadened our understanding of sport to include values like harmony, equality, and mutual understanding.«
Hon. Christy Clark, Premier of British Columbia
2016 brings us the 12th annual Vancouver
International Soccer Festival. Join us July 8, 9,
and 10 at Empire Fields in Vancouver.
VISF, One Team For Peace & Development
Soccer Society, and Official Partners invites
people of all backgrounds and cultures to join
us and participate in a 3-day soccer festival
full of festivities for the whole family! We are
setting the stage for Canada’s most exciting
three days of soccer!
This summer, 32 coed teams of 7-12 players
will play on the new Empire Fields for the first
time. Be part of Canada’s largest and most
meaningful soccer and culture celebration!
VISF Soccer Tournament is all about having
fun, living healthy lives, and promoting
our core values of Equality, Respect, and
Inclusion!
TOURNAMENT FORMAT:
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32 Coed teams of 7-12 players (minimum 2 females per co-ed team | minimum age is 16)
Each team will play a minimum of three games in the round-robin stage
The top two teams from each group will move on to the playoffs
AWARDS & PRIZES
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The Coveted annual VISF trophy will be handed to divisional winners
Draws will be held throughout the event with many prizes to be won
You will be part of the most exciting soccer tournament this summer has to offer!
FOOD & BEVERAGES
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Food and beverages including sports drinks, and beer and wine, will be available on site for purchase
Water will be available at the water tent. Please bring your own water bottle to gain access to the water supply and to reduce the garbage on-site!
REGISTRATION:
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We are growing and so are our staging costs. The registration fee helps us pay some of our staging costs required to put on a memorable festival!
Register your team today and be part of The most exciting Soccer event in Canada!
Registration for returning teams IN GOOD STANDINGS will open January 2016
Registration for New teams opens March 2016
Team fees are $650 CAD, plus applicable taxes. Fee includes 12 official tees or jerseys
To enhance festival atmosphere and to promote our core values, ALL teams must wear VISF official uniforms. No political, religious, and or commercial messaging allowed on uniforms. Thank you for your cooperation.
» I am proud to live in a city which prides itself on diversity and inclusiveness. Vancouver International Soccer Festival
brings together local and visiting teams from around the world to participate as equals on and off the playing field.
Through teamwork and respect for one another, VISF promotes peace and the rights of individuals to fully engage
in the betterment of society.« Hon. Gregor Robertson, Vancouver Mayor
SPONSOR • DONATE • VOLUNTEER • ENTER A TEAM • SPREAD THE WORD